Page 17 of Dr. Attending

Turns out I was right.

Because when Parker finally came clear about his omissions in the saga of their friendship, everything made sense—Weston wasn’t the only person at fault. And I think I surprised the both of us when I said those words out loud.

Parker and I ended our conversation on good terms, but sometimes he has the tendency to let things simmer until they finally spill over. So as I type a message back, I add in a teasing joke to soften the tension.

Yeah, after my exam on Friday.

Assuming I’m still invited.

His reply comes through quickly.

Of course.

You know you’re my favorite.

I can’t help my smile because my brother might drive me nuts with the constant pressure he puts on me to be just like him, but I still love him to death.

Remember that the next time I piss you off.

Also, is it really a wedding if you’re already husband and wife?

I’m just messing with him because I know how much it irritates him that they accidentally tied the knot in Vegas. I think if he had it his way, they would have done everything much more traditionally like they had originally planned.

Considering the guest list is now up to nine, I’d say so.

I frown as I type back.

Sorry. Did you say nine?

I could see where we might have five people because it wouldn’t surprise me if my sister begged to be able to bring her boyfriend. But nine? That seems like a big jump.

We’re getting the band back together.

As soon as I read the message, Morgan slinks into her seat with a heavy sigh, and everything clicks into place—she and Walker are coming too. I still have no idea who the final two people are, but I decide to table the issue for later.

I look up from my phone and narrow my eyes on my friend. “Something you want to tell me, Morg?”

I’m honestly impressed she made it this long without saying something. She’s the biggest yapper that I know, and it’s probably been killing her to keep this inside.

Morgan twirls a strand of loosely-curled chestnut hair around her finger as her lips twist into a suspicious grin. “I didn’t order blow job shots. Scouts honor.”

I decide to ignore the fact that she’s holding up a peace sign instead of a scout sign to focus on the more pressing issue.

“Whatcha doin’ for Labor Day? Hmmm? Got any big plans?”

She shrugs, puffing out her cheeks to hold back her giggles. “Oh, you know. This and that.”

God, I love her—she’s such a brat.

A massive grin creeps across my face. “I can’t believe you kept it a secret.”

“Oh my god,” she finally blurts, slamming her hands down on the table. “I felt like I was going to explode the whole time, but Parker told me not to say anything until he could talk to you.”

“Why would I care? I’m glad you guys are coming.”

Am I surprised that my brother agreed to let them join the festivities? A little—especially considering the fact that he hasn’t always had the best relationship with Morgan. But this just proves that he’s grown . . . or at least, he’s trying to grow. After he told me what happened with Weston, the jury is still out on his change arc.

“Well, because . . .” Morgan starts but then trails off, curling her lips behind her teeth like she’s forcing herself to stop talking.

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